Fujitsu and U.S. drone maker General Atomics Aeronautical Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish domestic maintenance and operational support capabilities for unmanned aircraft systems in Japan. The agreement focuses on the MQ-9B, which Japan plans to procure for its Maritime Self-Defense Force.
This collaboration strengthens Japan's defense capabilities by ensuring domestic support for its new fleet of surveillance drones, enhancing its ability to monitor its vast Exclusive Economic Zone and contributing to regional security.
Fujitsu and U.S. drone maker General Atomics Aeronautical Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish domestic maintenance and operational support capabilities for unmanned aircraft systems in Japan. The agreement, announced Thursday, comes as Japan seeks to bolster its maritime surveillance capabilities.
Under the MOU, the companies will examine a framework for Fujitsu to provide maintenance and operational support for General Atomics' MQ-9B drone within Japan. This includes areas such as avionics maintenance, parts management, maintenance training, and field support services. They will also explore future technical collaboration in mission systems and systems integration.
Japan's Ministry of Defense has announced plans to procure 23 MQ-9B aircraft for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, with deployment scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2027. The MQ-9B is designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions and can remain airborne for over 24 hours. Establishing domestic support capabilities is seen as crucial for the stable operation of these drones, addressing challenges like parts procurement lead times and the need for specialized personnel.
General Atomics brings extensive experience in UAS design and manufacturing, while Fujitsu has over a decade of expertise in maintaining maritime patrol aircraft for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Both companies aim to create a sustainable and secure operational foundation for UAS in Japan, contributing to the nation's security requirements.